FIFA Abandons $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan Following Global Backlash
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on August 1, 2026, that the organization is scrapping a controversial proposal to sell a 20% stake in its commercial operations to private investors. The $20 billion plan, which involved a New York-based investment firm, faced intense opposition from European soccer federations and threats of a boycott. Critics, including FIFA's own Chief Operating Officer, accused the leadership of deceiving staff and a lack of transparency. The reversal marks a significant setback for Infantino’s efforts to commercialize World Cup assets.